Stress can take its toll on people in a myriad of ways, so when Hunter New England Health contracted counselling services for rural communities as part of their Regional Health Services Program, opportunities for stress relief became a real option.

While some people have taken up the opportunity for free counselling support, there are still more hours available for people living in the towns and surrounding areas of Coolatai, Croppa Creek, Gravesend, North Star and Yetman. As this round of funding is only until June 2008, the counselling service will then be evaluated - so it’s important people who need the service are aware they can access the program.

Primary Health Care Nurse, Melanie Press, said she knows there are people struggling with issues at the moment, and to have a confidential chat to someone can really help them find a way forward.

"These sort of pressures can have a big impact of relationships, self esteem and affect many of the choices people make every day," she said.

Melanie said typical signs that you might be stressed include:

The contract with Anglican Counselling Service means that experienced counsellors Wendy Long, and Jenny and Ran Mitchell willing to come to the local communities of Coolatai, Croppa Creek, Gravesend, North Star and Yetman to see clients close to their homes.

Mel Press said having trained professionals to talk things through with can be very empowering. People just need to call (02) 6752 3419 to make an appointment.

She said Regional Health Services has been to invited to submit for further funding for three years, but if counselling services aren’t what people need or want, we need to re-evaluate our plans.

"We are committed to providing services that will help people stay well in rural communities, and we want people to know these services are available and accessible," she said

Other counselling services also available, include:

Anglican Counselling Service 6752 3419

Beyond Blue info line 1300 224 636

Centacare 6765 5092

Lifeline 13 11 14

Lifeline ‘Just Ask’ 1300 131 114

Mensline Australia 1300 789 978

North West Rural Financial Counselling Service 6752 3561

NSW Dept of Agriculture Drought Hotline 1800 814 647

Salvo Care Line 1300 363 622

Rural Mental Health Support Line 1800 201 123